According to the New York Post, a man in Washington, DC, has become the first person to contract the H5N5 type of bird flu, which has only ever been found in animals and never in humans.
Earlier this month, the "severely ill" guy was admitted to the hospital due to a high fever, disorientation, and respiratory distress.
The individual was later diagnosed with H5N5, a strain of avian influenza that is spread by wild birds like geese and ducks. The Washington State Department of Health confirmed that the patient, an elderly adult with underlying medical issues, was admitted to the hospital in early November due to avian influenza symptoms.
This is the first recorded human case of avian flu (H5N5) in a Washington resident since February. The man's residence in Grays Harbor County, on the state's southwest Pacific coast, is home to a "mixed backyard flock of domestic poultry," according to the health office.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, "the most likely source of virus exposure is domestic poultry or wild birds; however, public health investigation is ongoing."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), avian influenza, also known as "bird flu," is a disease brought on by influenza A viruses that mostly affect birds. Wild aquatic birds serve as reservoirs for these diseases.
The H5N5 virus can cause mild to severe symptoms or none at all (asymptomatic). Fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, exhaustion, muscle aches, and occasionally gastrointestinal problems including vomiting or diarrhea are typical symptoms.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, reports of conjunctivitis have been made. According to the Pan American Health Organization, severe cases may result in pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, or even death.
The public is not at high danger, according to state health experts and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even though there is little chance of bird flu in people, it is important to recognize the warning signs and symptoms.
Other others have not tested positive for H5N5. Although specialists have admitted that viral evolution can be "unpredictable," there is no proof of person to person transmission.
The virus is transmitted by feces and respiratory secretions in birds. Close, unprotected contact with diseased birds or contaminated surroundings (such as poultry farms or live bird markets) is usually how humans contract the disease.
According to the World Health Organization, transmission can happen through dust, droplets, or touching surfaces contaminated with bird secretions and then contacting one's mouth, nose, or eyes.
According to the World Organization for Animal Health, influenza A (H5) viruses are genetically diverse and can reassort (shuffle genetic material), which implies new variations may evolve. Even while there is currently little risk, "pandemic potential" calls for attention, especially in animal groups where these viruses are prevalent.
Steer clear of sick or dead birds. When handling poultry or cleaning bird coops, wear the proper safety equipment (masks, gloves).
Steer clear of raw or undercooked meat, eggs, poultry, and raw milk from animals that are infected. Public health organizations advise continuous monitoring and quick identification of emerging human illnesses.
